In brief
Bezalel Smotrich, Israel's finance minister, has gained newfound acceptance in U.S. politics, meeting with top officials to discuss cooperation, marking a stark contrast to prior diplomatic relations under the Biden administration.
Bezalel Smotrich, the Israeli finance minister known for his far-right views and controversial positions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, has made a significant visit to Washington, welcomed by the Trump administration after years of being sidelined. During his meeting with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Mr. Smotrich expressed his contentment, reflecting on the absence of ministerial-level interactions between the U.S. Treasury and the Israeli government during the prior administration under Biden.“After four years during which, under the Biden administration, there was no ministerial-level meeting between the U.S. Treasury Department and the Israeli government, we are now entering the Treasury Department,” Mr. Smotrich stated, highlighting the importance of this shift in relations. Following his interaction with Bessent, Smotrich shared on social media a handshake photo, showcasing their commitment to further collaboration on vital areas such as economic policy, technology, and financial regulation.Stressing the significance of their cooperation, the Israeli minister declared it a pivotal moment for both countries to redefine their economic future, asserting Israel's critical role as a partner in promoting American global leadership. This meeting arrives amidst rising tensions in the region, as Smotrich is known for opposing cease-fires in Gaza and his support for Jewish settlers in the West Bank. The meeting raises pressing questions regarding the implications of U.S. support for such starkly contrasting views on the Israeli-Palestinian discourse and the broader geopolitical landscape.
